General Plumbing Repairs and Maintenance: Everything Homeowners Need to Know

Learn how regular maintenance and timely repairs can save you money and keep your home running smoothly and get your FREE General Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for 2025.

We all know how fast little plumbing problems can pile up. Small issues like a dripping tap or a running toilet can seem insignificant but often signal underlying problems that could lead to costly repairs if left unattended.

In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about general plumbing repairs and maintenance—from fixing leaky taps and improving water pressure to creating a maintenance plan that helps you avoid emergencies. Let’s dive in and make sure your home’s plumbing system stays in top shape!

Common General Repairs

Even small plumbing issues can have a big impact on your home’s comfort and your water bill. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common plumbing repairs and how to handle them:

1. Leaky Taps and Pipes

• Cause: Worn washers, corroded fittings, or high water pressure.

• Why It’s a Problem:

  1. Wastes water and increases your utility bills.

  2. Can lead to water damage and mould growth if left unchecked.

• Solution:

  1. Replace washers regularly to prevent wear.

  2. Inspect connections for signs of rust, corrosion, or loose fittings.

  3. Schedule a plumber if the leak persists or worsens, as it may indicate a more serious issue.

2. Running Toilets

• Cause: Faulty flapper valves, misaligned float mechanisms, or old components.

• Why It’s a Problem:

  1. A running toilet can waste up to 750 litres of water per day, significantly increasing your water bill.

  2. Over time, this can also cause wear to internal components.

• Solution:

  1. Replace worn-out flapper valves or adjust the float.

  2. Ensure the water level is set to the optimal point to avoid constant refilling.

  3. If the issue persists, consider replacing older internal components with new, water-efficient parts.

3. Low Water Pressure

• Cause: Sediment build-up in pipes or fixtures, hidden leaks, or municipal water supply issues.

• Why It’s a Problem:

  1. Reduces the effectiveness of showers, taps, and appliances.

  2. May indicate a larger issue, such as clogged pipes or system-wide leaks.

• Solution:

  1. Clean aerators and showerheads regularly to remove mineral deposits.

  2. Inspect visible pipes and taps for signs of leaks.

  3. If the issue is widespread, consult a professional plumber to check for hidden blockages or pressure valve issues.

By addressing these common repairs promptly, you can prevent minor annoyances from becoming major plumbing problems. Regular maintenance can save you money, reduce water waste, and keep your home running smoothly.

Importance of Routine Maintenance

Regular plumbing maintenance isn’t just about avoiding emergencies—it’s about keeping your home’s water system efficient and long-lasting. Here’s why routine maintenance is crucial:

1. Water Efficiency

• Prevents Water Waste: Regularly checking for leaks, drips, and inefficient fixtures ensures that you’re not wasting water unnecessarily.

• Reduces Water Bills: Addressing small issues early, like a dripping tap, can lead to noticeable savings on your monthly water bill.

• Example: A leaking tap that drips once per second can waste more than 11,000 litres of water per year.

2. Early Detection of Problems

• Identifies Minor Issues Before They Become Major: Routine inspections can catch small leaks, corrosion, or worn components before they lead to major issues like burst pipes or sewer backups.

• Saves on Costly Repairs: Preventative care can help you avoid emergency call-outs and expensive replacements.

• Real-Life Scenario: Catching a small pipe crack during maintenance could prevent extensive water damage and costly restoration work.

3. Increased Longevity of Fixtures and Systems

• Prolongs the Lifespan of Plumbing Systems: Regular maintenance helps fixtures, pipes, and water heaters work more efficiently and last longer.

• Prevents Premature Replacements: By maintaining your plumbing system, you can delay the need for costly replacements of key components.

• Practical Tip: Flushing your water heater annually to remove sediment can extend its lifespan by several years.

Incorporating routine plumbing maintenance into your home care schedule can save you money, prevent water waste, and give you peace of mind. A small investment in maintenance today can prevent significant costs tomorrow.

​​DIY vs. Professional Repairs

When it comes to plumbing, some minor issues can be tackled by homeowners, but more complex problems require professional expertise. Here’s how to know the difference:

1. When DIY is Safe

• Unclogging a Sink: Using a plunger for a simple blockage.

• Replacing an Aerator: Swapping out a clogged tap aerator to improve water flow.

• Tightening Loose Fittings: Gently tightening a loose connection to stop minor drips.

DIY Tip: Always turn off the water supply before performing any repairs to avoid accidental leaks or flooding.

2. When to Call a Professional

• Persistent Leaks: If a leak persists after basic repairs, it may indicate deeper issues like pipe damage or high water pressure.

• Running Toilets: When replacing flapper valves or adjusting floats doesn’t solve the problem, a professional can diagnose the issue and ensure correct installation.

• Pipe Replacements or Major Repairs: Replacing sections of pipe or dealing with hidden leaks requires specialised tools and knowledge to avoid causing further damage.

3. Pro Tip: Know When to Step Back

Attempting advanced repairs without the right tools or knowledge can lead to more damage, higher repair costs, and potential water damage to your home. When in doubt, trust a professional plumber who can quickly diagnose and fix the problem the right way the first time.

By understanding the limits of DIY plumbing and knowing when to call a professional, you can save both time and money while protecting your home from costly mistakes.

Maintenance Checklist (Downloadable)

Regular maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Use this checklist to stay on top of your home’s plumbing system and prevent unexpected issues:

Monthly Maintenance

• Check taps and pipes for leaks.

• Inspect under sinks for signs of moisture or water pooling.

• Test all drains to ensure they flow freely.

Quarterly Maintenance

• Clean tap aerators and shower heads to remove mineral build-up.

• Run water in unused sinks or fixtures to prevent seals from drying out.

• Check outdoor hoses and taps for leaks or drips.

Biannual Maintenance

• Inspect toilets for slow leaks by adding a few drops of food colouring to the tank. If the colour appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.

• Check water pressure levels and adjust as needed (optimal range: 40-60 psi).

Annual Maintenance

• Flush your water heater to remove sediment build-up.

• Schedule a professional inspection for pipes, valves, and water heaters.

• Inspect the main shut-off valve to ensure it functions properly.

*Download Your 2025 General Plumbing Maintenance PDF here*

By following this maintenance checklist, you can keep your plumbing system running efficiently and avoid costly repairs. Consistency is key—small maintenance tasks add up to significant long-term savings and peace of mind.